Argues that equalization policies have been advocated on the grounds of efficiency and equity. A case can be made for a policy to assist governments with constituencies that are disproportionately poor.

This article summarizes the proceedings of a conference on state and local finance issues held under the auspices of Taxation, Resources, and Economic Development (TRED) during October 1991.

State-local tax policies to encourage growth and development have been roundly criticized as detrimental to social welfare. In response, recent proposals have included delimiting the ability of states and localities to fashion tax policies. Not only are such proposals unworkable, but they fail...